Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Hours: 120 On-Campus Online

About

In today’s increasingly complex and interconnected world, the demand for compassionate, knowledgeable, and adaptable psychological professionals is greater than ever. Across a wide range of settings, including schools, healthcare facilities, law enforcement, and community organizations, individuals with a deep understanding of human behavior play a critical role in fostering positive change.

A Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Psychology provides students with a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of psychological science. The program’s flexible structure allows students to customize their coursework to align with their personal interests and career aspirations, effectively preparing them for diverse professional opportunities or further graduate study.

For more information about this minor, please contact the Department of Psychology.

Why pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Fort Hays State University?

Fort Hays State University offers both a B.A. and a B.S. in Psychology through on-campus and fully online formats. This flexible delivery model accommodates the diverse needs of students around the world, allowing them to pursue a high-quality education without compromising personal responsibilities or being constrained by location.

Who is this program for?

These programs are designed to enhance students’ understanding of human behavior and mental processes. Providing a strong foundation in core areas of psychology, they are well-suited for students with a wide range of interests within the field. The programs are particularly ideal for individuals in the following groups:

People desiring to make a positive impact on individuals and communities
Students pursuing graduate studies in psychology
Individuals intrigued by the mind and the factors that influence human behavior
Students interested in scientific research
Future school or clinical psychologist

Learning Outcomes

Fort Hays State University is committed to providing high-quality education and research opportunities in the behavioral and psychological sciences. The programs are crafted to prepare students to become compassionate, knowledgeable, and actively engaged individuals who make meaningful contributions to their communities and the broader field of psychology. Upon graduation, students will be able to:

Describe Key Concepts and Themes in Psychology

Students explore fundamental psychological concepts and theories that help explain human thought, emotion, and behavior. The curriculum features major perspectives, such as cognitive, behavioral, developmental, and social psychology, offering a comprehensive foundation for understanding how psychological principles influence individuals and groups across a variety of contexts.

Use Scientific Reasoning to Design and Conduct Psychological Research

The programs emphasize scientific rigor and critical thinking, equipping students to engage confidently with psychological research. Students learn to critically evaluate and interpret research findings, design and conduct empirical studies, and apply appropriate statistical methods to analyze data accurately and effectively.

Communicate Ideas Effectively

Clear and effective communication is essential across all professional settings, including the field of psychology. The programs emphasize the development of strong written and verbal communication skills, enabling students to present research findings, prepare professional reports, and engage in meaningful dialogue with clients, colleagues, and diverse audiences.

Develop Professional Direction and Skills Aimed at Career Goals

The B.A. and B.S. in Psychology programs support students in identifying and refining their professional goals within the field of psychology. Through career counseling, faculty mentorship, and internship opportunities, students explore a wide range of career paths while building the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience necessary for success in their chosen areas of specialization.

Real-World Applications

The B.A. and B.S. in Psychology programs offer extensive research opportunities that allow students to gain hands-on experience in conducting psychological studies. Under the guidance of faculty mentors, students actively contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field. In addition, apprenticeship opportunities provide real-world settings where students apply theoretical concepts, strengthening their ability to analyze complex issues and develop practical, evidence-based solutions.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The curriculum incorporates the latest advancements in psychology, ensuring students receive a current and comprehensive education. Faculty members integrate cutting-edge research, emerging theories, and innovative teaching methods into their courses. They actively participate in local, regional, national, and international conferences, fostering connections with experts and staying informed about the newest developments in the field. Additionally, faculty hold leadership positions in prominent psychological organizations and engage in ongoing professional development to deliver innovative and well-informed instruction.

Hands-on Activities

The programs emphasize experiential, high-impact learning through a variety of approaches. Faculty prioritize strong student-advisor relationships that promote student success, mutual respect, and collaborative research. Students are encouraged to participate in scholarly activities that support their professional development and contribute to the advancement of psychological science and practice.

In addition, partnerships with several agencies provide unique internship opportunities. With numerous dedicated research laboratories and clinics, faculty and students collaborate on projects that make meaningful contributions to the field of psychology.

What You’ll Learn:

Core psychological theories and principles
Ethical practices in psychology
Advanced research methodologies
Application of psychology to various settings, such as clinical and school settings
Understanding of developmental and cognitive processes

How You’ll Learn:

Engaging with cutting-edge research
Participating in professional internships
Conducting experiments
Collaborating on real-world case studies

Courses

The B.A. and B.S. in Psychology curricula are innovative and current, designed to prepare students for diverse career paths. Offering flexibility through a combination of core and elective courses, students can select a specialized area of emphasis: Social-Cognitive, Developmental-Cultural, or Applied Mental Health.

Both programs balance scientific and theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. Students complete core courses that build a strong foundation in psychology as a science and provide a comprehensive overview of its various sub-disciplinary fields.

PSY 100: General Psychology

This course involves a survey of principles related to human and animal behavior. The focus will be on the evaluation of theories and methods of analysis, related research, and practical applications of principles of behavior.

PSY 300: Abnormal Psychology

A systematic study of the classification, description, and treatment of human psychological disorders. Students will examine mental health perspectives and emerging issues in the mental health field while developing skills and insights, such as self-awareness, empathy, interpersonal communication, and ethical decision-making, crucial for personal growth and success in diverse professional contexts.

PSY 340: Social Psychology

This course involves the study of the individual in social interaction and social influence situations. The focus will be on the investigation of theoretical, empirical, and practical issues related to interpersonal behavior and group processes.

Discover the full Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Bachelor of Science in Psychology course listings by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Career opportunities for graduates encompass a wide range of specializations, each offering distinct pathways for professional development. Most importantly, these programs prepare students to succeed in diverse roles that make a positive impact on individuals, organizations, and communities. Potential career options include:

Mental Health Case Manager

Mental health case managers support individuals with mental health conditions by assessing needs, developing treatment plans, and coordinating care. Graduates apply research skills to enhance client well-being effectively.

HR Manager

Human resources management focuses on recruiting, developing, and retaining employees. Psychology majors are well-prepared for this role thanks to their understanding of behavior, leadership, and interpersonal skills.

PR Specialist

Public relations specialists manage an organization’s image by developing communication strategies, handling media relations, and managing crises. Graduates are prepared to craft effective messages, address challenges, and build strong media connections.

Sports Psychologist

Sports psychologists assist athletes in improving performance and managing mental challenges. With a foundation in cognitive and behavioral psychology, graduates help athletes reach their full potential.

School Psychologist

A school psychologist assesses students’ academic and emotional needs, provides counseling, and collaborates with educators and families to support student success. Graduate training and licensure are required.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Fort Hays State University provides a variety of related programs that support students pursuing careers in psychology. These programs prepare students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in diverse fields, including mental health, education, business, and beyond. Prospective students may explore the following options:

FAQ

What can you do with a B.A. or B.S. in Psychology?

The degree can prepare you for a wide range of careers. The potential fields include clinical psychology, school psychology, business psychology, and health research. Some of these career options involve advanced graduate training and licensure.

Are there specific areas of psychology, such as clinical or forensic, that I can focus on in the B.A. or B.S. in Psychology?

While the programs provide a broad foundation in psychology, you can also choose to specialize in specific areas of interest.

Can a B.A. or B.S. in Psychology be a stepping stone to further education in psychology?

Yes, a B.A. and B.S. in Psychology can serve as a stepping stone to further education in psychology, such as an M.S. or Ph.D.

Do I need a graduate degree, too?

A graduate degree in psychology is not required for all psychology careers, but it can be helpful for those who want to work in more specialized sectors or advance their careers. Therefore, it depends on the area of psychology that students are interested in pursuing.

Can individuals from non-psychology backgrounds enroll in these programs?

Yes, individuals from non-psychology backgrounds are welcome to enroll in this program.

Do you offer any psychology certificates?

Yes, we offer a variety of certificate options for psychology students and non-majors, including Foundations of Public Mental Health, Sports Psychology, Criminal Psychology, Juvenile Justice Youth Development, and Psychology of Leadership.

What is the difference between a B.A. and a B.S. in Psychology?

Students pursuing a B.A. in Psychology are required to complete ten credit hours of instruction in a language other than English. This requirement is designed to provide students with a broader cultural and linguistic perspective.

In contrast, the B.S. in Psychology does not mandate foreign language study, allowing students to focus more intensively on technical and scientific coursework within their field of study. Despite this key difference, both degree programs share similar overall requirements in terms of total credit hours and core coursework. This equivalence ensures that students achieve a comprehensive education within their major field of study, regardless of the degree path chosen.

Information about the Department of Psychology

The Department of Psychology at FHSU offers innovative experiential learning opportunities that allow students to explore psychology theory and understand the human mind. Committed to excellence in education and research, the department prepares students to contribute to local and global communities as knowledgeable citizens and lifelong learners. With award-winning faculty, the department provides high-quality education, fostering strong student-faculty relationships and offering meaningful internships through local partnerships.

Students engage in collaborative research, participate in scholarly activities, and gain practical experience in dedicated research labs and community settings. Graduates of the psychology programs are well-equipped to pursue rewarding careers, having developed professional skills and a deep understanding of psychological science. The department offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, on-campus and online, ensuring students receive the necessary support and resources to succeed.

Student Organizations

Psychology

Minor
Bachelor's

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